GENERAL SANTOS CITY — In Iloilo City, MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) is demonstrating how modern technology can reduce power interruptions and significantly improve service reliability—an approach that may soon be introduced in the Soccsksargen region.

Ignite Power, a sister company of MORE Power, is currently proposing a partnership with the South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO II), signaling a potential shift toward modernization of the power distribution system serving General Santos City and nearby areas.

Improved Reliability Through Modernization

A worker in a hard hat and green shirt operates control panels with buttons and displays in an electrical facility.

In Iloilo City, upgrades such as advanced substations, upgraded feeder lines, and intelligent system automation have enabled faster detection of electrical faults, quicker restoration of power, and more proactive maintenance of facilities.

Key protection devices such as Digital Microprocessor Relays are installed in substations to continuously monitor electrical parameters and automatically isolate faults, preventing wider system disruptions.

As a result, both the frequency and duration of power interruptions have been significantly reduced.

Real-Time Monitoring and Faster Response

At the core of the modernization effort is the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, a centralized digital platform that allows operators to monitor and control the entire distribution network in real time.

Through SCADA, operators can remotely open or close switches, balance loads, and isolate problem areas—resulting in faster response and restoration during outages.

Smart Protection along Distribution Lines

Utility workers in helmets and safety gear performing maintenance on power lines and poles in an urban setting.
Close-up view of electrical equipment on a utility pole, featuring three insulators and power lines.

MORE Power also uses Automatic Circuit Reclosers (ACR), smart protective devices installed along distribution lines that automatically open to isolate a fault and then close again to re-energize the line within seconds after a temporary or transient disturbance.

Because many interruptions are caused by momentary problems such as branches touching lines or animal intrusions, ACRs help restore service automatically without requiring manual intervention.

Mobile Substations for Emergencies and Upgrades

Aerial view of a large electrical transformer surrounded by workers in hard hats, with construction equipment and safety cones in the background.
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A large mobile power transformer on a trailer, with multiple electrical connections and a clear blue sky in the background.

Another important component of the system is the Mobile Substation, a transportable substation unit that can temporarily supply electricity to affected feeders during maintenance work, transformer replacement, substation rehabilitation, or emergency situations.

This allows customers to continue receiving power while permanent facilities are being repaired or upgraded, helping minimize disruption during major works.

Preventive Maintenance Using Advanced Tools

A worker wearing a white hard hat and a green jacket is using a yellow handheld device to take measurements or readings at an industrial site.

MORE Power also utilizes thermal scanners and drone-based inspections to detect overheating components and potential faults before they lead to major outages.

This proactive approach allows maintenance teams to address issues early, reducing the risk of unexpected system failures.

Flexible Distribution Through Network Interconnection

Through a Looping System or interconnected distribution network, electricity can be rerouted from alternative sources when faults occur.

Supporting this are Load Break Switches (LBS), which allow operators to isolate affected sections and transfer loads without shutting down entire feeders—resulting in faster restoration for most consumers.

Reducing Vegetation-Related Interruptions

Aerial view of a busy road alongside a large warehouse, with multiple vehicles including trucks and motorcycles, set against a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.

Covered conductors, commonly referred to as tree wires, are also being used to minimize outages caused by vegetation and foreign objects coming into contact with power lines.

These specialized wires help prevent short circuits, especially in areas with dense tree growth.

Proposed Partnership with SOCOTECO II

Ignite Power has expressed its commitment to implement similar modernization initiatives in the Soccsksargen region through a proposed partnership with SOCOTECO II, the electric cooperative that currently distributes power in General Santos City and nearby localities.

The proposal highlights the potential adoption of advanced systems such as SCADA, ACRs, and automated substations—similar to those implemented in Iloilo City—to improve reliability, efficiency, and overall service quality.

While discussions are ongoing, the move signals a possible transition toward a more modernized and technology-driven power distribution system in the region.

About MORE Power and Ignite Power

MORE Power is the sole electric distribution utility in Iloilo City and has undertaken extensive modernization efforts since assuming operations in 2020.

Ignite Power, its sister company, is part of a joint venture between MP Holdings of former Senator Manny Pacquiao and Primelectric Holdings of Enrique K. Razon. The company is focused on expanding modern power distribution solutions across the country, including potential partnerships with electric cooperatives such as SOCOTECO II. ##

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